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What does it do?

Raloxifene is used to treat or prevent osteoporosis (weak bones) in women who have been through menopause. It helps to make your bones stronger and less likely to break. Raloxifene is also used to help lower the chances of breast cancer in women who have a high risk.

Before you start

  • Tell your doctor if you have ever had a stroke, ‘mini-stroke’ or blood clot, or if you have not been through menopause.

How should you take it?

Take raloxifene regularly as directed with a glass of water.

What if you forget a dose?

If it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time. Otherwise, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side EffectsRecommended action

Symptoms of a blood clot including: sudden shortness of breath, swelling or pain in one leg

Symptoms of a stroke including: sudden weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side, face drooping, sudden changes in vision or speech, sudden loss of balance

Tell your doctor immediately

Hot flushing

Joint, muscle or bone aches and pains

Swollen feet or legs

Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, aches and pains)

Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.


This leaflet contains important, but not all, information about this medicine.

Prepared by the MyMedicines Committee at Christchurch Hospital, Te Whatu Ora - Waitaha, New Zealand. March 2023

For more general information about this sheet and its contents, see: What does a My Medicines sheet cover?

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About My Medicines

My Medicines Patient Information Leaflets (PILs) contain important, but not all, information about the medicines they describe.

For more information about the sheets, see: What does a My Medicines sheet cover?

My Medicines is developed by a team at Te Whatu Ora – Waitaha. Our team is made up of doctors, pharmacists, and a non-medical person to help us keep to plain language. We also discuss our information with specialist health professionals or groups when needed